The event could help to 'soften the image of Saudi Arabia' in the minds of federal politicians, says one public affairs consultant.

Foreign Minister Stéphane Dion, right, joined Saudi Ambassador Naif Bin Bandir AlSudairy for dinner at the Saudi ambassador's home in March. The Hill Times photograph by Sam Garcia

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The Saudi government is planning to send dancers to the lawns of Parliament Hill May 19 as part of a massive, four-day cultural show, while a range of rights groups and media pundits continue to pressure Canada’s government over arms sales to the Middle Eastern powerhouse. A delegation of around 100 performers, artists, and other exhibitors are set to arrive in Ottawa to show off various aspects of Saudi culture—from Arabic calligraphy to folk dances and Arab cuisine—from May 18 to 21.

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